Washington, DC

The lack of sustained leadership has plagued the Washington, DC public school system for decades. Our nation’s capital, home to fifty thousand students, boasts one of the worst school districts in the country. Two thirds of students are far behind in reading, in math, three quarters.

In June 2007 new mayor Adrian Fenty assumed control of the ailing school system, firing the incumbent superintendent and replacing him with Michelle Rhee. Some questioned her lack of experience managing a public school system. Others felt she was exactly what was needed – a change agent from outside the district. In July the city council unanimously voted her in. Since then she has plotted a deliberate, and frequently controversial, course.

This series follows Michelle Rhee's attempts to reform one of the most challenged school districts in America. Can Rhee provide a model of reform for the entire country, delivering on her promise of an excellent education for every child?

LATEST PODCASTS A Step Back in DC Schools Reform? William Lockridge served as an elected official on the DC school board for over 9 years. Now the school board has been dissolved leaving Mr. Lockridge and other community members with little say in what is happening in DC schools. He talks about his changing role and Rhee's radical reforms. Community Engagement & Reform in DC Parent advocate Margot Berkey is thrilled about the prospect of lasting school reform in Washington, DC. Berkey discusses the ramifications of what she sees as a lack of transparency on the part of DC schools leaders. More podcasts >>>

RELATED NEWS Rhee Offers Plan to Improve DC's Troubled Schools D.C. Schools Chancellor Michelle A. Rhee detailed plans yesterday for overhauling 26 academically troubled schools, saying she will replace principals and teachers, hire private education-management firms and install instructional programs to boost student achievement. (Washington Post / May 15, 2008) Teacher Contract Would End Seniority The Washington Teachers' Union is discussing a proposed three-year contract from the school system that would eliminate seniority, giving Schools Chancellor Michelle A. Rhee more control in filling vacancies, a union member familiar with the talks said yesterday. (Washington Post / May 20, 2008) Learn more >>>